You are here

Six-year-old Lil’ D renews fight after cancer returns

David Kanke, Wynona’s Lil D is fascinated with dragons because, “They are big and brave and can beat anything.” On February 1 of this year, Lil D was honored by the Pawhuska Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office and Connors Correctional Facility drilling a whirlwind day of activities. “These are my brothers,” said Lil D. Shown are OCSO supporters.

BY KATHRYN SWAN

J-C CORRESPONDENT

Lil’ D Kanke’s cancer is back — and this time with a vengeance, friends and family members say.

The diagnosis was in stark contrast to the news that his family received in late February that his cancer was in remission.

This time the cancer reportedly surfaced on the opposite side of his neck and is growing fast.

Six-year-old David Kanke, known by all as “Lil’ D,” has been fighting cancer — a rare form of the disease, called ganglioneuroblastoma — for nearly two years.

His family is devastated with the latest news but has faith that their “brave little dragon” will overcome this new challenge.

On Feb. 1, Lil’ D was honored by the Pawhuska Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office and Connors Correctional Facility during a whirlwind day of activities.

“These are my brothers,” said Lil’ D.

Mom Kelly Kanke said the new diagnosis was hard to hear.

“My brave little dragon has always been so upbeat,” she said. “He’s been so brave during this ordeal. It broke my heart to see him cry for the first time in the doctor’s office when we heard the cancer had returned. This really hit him hard.”

In addition to prayers, Kelly Kanke said her little boy needs reassurance that he hasn’t been forgotten by his supporters.

Updates are available on his Facebook page at Prayer-chain-for-Lil-d-David-Kanke. Cards may be sent to Lil D Kanke, PO Box 445, Wynona, Ok, 74084.